What first began with “Taste of India” in 2011continued with the fourth installment of a culture series on Saturday, April 20. North Bergen’s Free Public Library has taken its patrons around the world and the latest stop was China.

“A Taste of China” was filled with entertainment ranging from a musical saw performance to a kung fu dance provided by the Chinese-American Family Coalition (CAFC) of New Jersey. CAFC is a non-for-profit organization that “aims to promote Chinese culture.”

One little patron, Martina Gomez, dressed for the occasion and was eager to see what the afternoon had in store for her as she sat on the lap of Children’s Librarian Krista Welz.

Cultural success

Library Director Sai Rao and Mayor Nicholas Sacco are pleased with the success of the cultural series, which the community seems to have embraced.

“We felt the cultural events we’ve been holding have been very successful,” said Sacco. “This [event] seemed to set a new standard.”

Rao thanked Mayor Sacco, the Board of Trustees and the CAFC for their support.

The event introduced various aspects of Chinese culture, including language, art, martial arts, and the importance of tea.

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North Bergen’s Free Public Library has taken its patrons around the world.

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Musical performances began with a Chinese harp, Gu Zheng, a solo by Mia Liu, and a fashion show representing the ancient to more modern women’s clothing. There was also a musical saw performance by Liming Chen, who had the audience astonished that a mere household tool can be turned into an instrument.

After the performance portion of the evening came chopstick demonstrations, Chinese calligraphy, brush painting, tea, pork dumplings, and paper folding.